Your 613 Guide: Spooky Fun, Stellar Sounds, and Autumn Adventures for October 12–18, 2026!
October 12–18, 2026
Hey Ottawa! The crisp autumn air is officially here, and with it comes a fantastic lineup of events to fill your week from October 12th to 18th, 2026. Whether you're looking for spooky thrills, local finds, enriching experiences, or just a good old-fashioned community gathering, the 613 has something special in store for you. Let's dive into some of the highlights!
Start Your Week Strong!
Don't wait for the weekend to get active! Kick off your Monday, October 12th, with some unique options. Challenge your mind with an outdoor escape game starting at Parliament of Canada, or hit the pavement for the SUNSET 6K FOR ALL HOSTED BY ARBORETUM HILL CLUB at the Dominion Arboretum. Looking for laughs? Head to The Barley Mow (Merivale) for their regular Comedy Open Mic. For a dose of funk and rock, don't miss THE FRIENDLY FROGS FREAK SHOW + The Lionyls at House of TARG.
Friday Night Frights & Delights
October 16th is absolutely packed with pre-Halloween excitement! If you're into spine-tingling experiences, Ottawa is your playground. Brave the thrills of Acres of Terror, sKreamers, or The Elmvale Ward Séance at 2935 Conroy Rd. For a unique outdoor adventure after dark, join the Oniro Night Walk. The Stittsville Haunted Heritage Tours 2026 also promise a chilling journey. If you prefer to dance away the ghosts, Now Clap! Bob The Drag Queen's on Tour has two shows at The Bronson, or get down at the BADDEST B*TCHES IN OTTAWA: GIRL POP & HYPERPOP DANCE PARTY ★ or the Electric Feel - indie sleaze dance party.
Market Mania & Creative Finds
Get ready to shop local and discover unique treasures! Friday, October 16th, is a prime day for markets, including the vibrant Gloucester Night Market. You'll also find a bounty of goods at the Handmade Finds Festival at 55 Byward Market Square, the Vendors & Creatives Showcase 2026 at LeBreton Flats, and The Great Small Business Showcase at Commissioners Park – all three are free to attend! As the week rolls into Saturday, October 17th, stock up on fresh produce and artisanal goods at your favourite local spots: the Carp Farmers’ Market, Main Street Farmers' Market, Metcalfe Farmers' Market, Westboro Farmers' Market, and the charming Wakefield Market.
Arts, Brains, and Beats
For those seeking intellectual stimulation, artistic expression, or fantastic live music, this week delivers! Friday, October 16th, is a big day for literary minds with Can-Con, Ottawa’s Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror Literature Convention, at the Brookstreet Hotel. You can also catch Readings at Library and Archives Canada or explore local authors at Love Lyla Books Readings and Signings (which also hosts an Open Mic Night with Silk Road Institute feat. Sanna Wani). Musically, Friday features legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn at Southam Hall, and the high-energy REVERBERATE | An Open Air Gathering. Saturday, October 17th, brings the iconic The Black Keys - Peaches n' Kream World Tour to the Canadian Tire Centre for a night of rock and roll you won't want to miss!
Family Fun & Community Connections
There are plenty of opportunities for family outings and community engagement. On Friday, October 16th, get creative with a Ceramic Painting - ZELALOUN workshop. For a unique (and free!) wellness experience, check out the Sauna & Cold Plunge Social | Workout + Firepit at Findlay Creek Farmstead Animal Sanctuary. Come Saturday, October 17th, bring the kids (and pets!) to Hintonburg Howl-O-Ween at Parkdale Park or enjoy the Glebe Halloween Village Accessible Trick-or-Treating. The Canadian Museum of Nature: Open House - Research and Collections also offers a fascinating, free peek behind the scenes for curious minds of all ages.
This is just a taste of what's happening in Ottawa this week! For all the details and to explore more events, be sure to check out our full calendar at 613cal.ca. Have a wonderful week, 613!